Making a bedroom wheelchair accessible can be a challenging task, but it is important to ensure that people with disabilities have a comfortable and safe space in their own home. With the right modifications, a bedroom can be easily adapted to accommodate a wheelchair and make it easy for people with disabilities to move around and access all the features of the room. In this article, we will discuss some key steps to making a bedroom wheelchair accessible.
Doorway and Hallway Access
The first step in making a bedroom wheelchair accessible is to ensure that the doorway and hallway leading to the bedroom are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. This may require removing door frames or installing wider doorways. It’s also important to make sure that there are no obstacles in the hallway that could impede movement or cause accidents.
Flooring
Flooring is another important consideration when making a bedroom wheelchair accessible. It’s important to make sure that the flooring is slip-resistant and easy to clean. Carpeting can be a tripping hazard, so it’s best to avoid it or use low-pile carpet. Hardwood or tile flooring are great options.
Bed and Furniture
The bed and furniture in the bedroom should be at a comfortable height for someone using a wheelchair. This may require installing adjustable beds or raising the height of the bed frame. It’s also important to make sure that there is enough space around the bed and furniture to accommodate a wheelchair.
Active Mobility
Active mobility within the bedroom is essential for individuals who use wheelchairs. This means ensuring there is sufficient turning radius for the wheelchair, typically at least 1.5 meters (about 5 feet), and maintaining clear pathways between key areas such as the bed, closet, window, and bathroom. Avoid placing heavy or immovable furniture in the middle of the room, and consider using sliding doors to minimize space usage. Installing assistive devices such as bed transfer poles, ceiling lifts, or rail systems can also help facilitate independence and improve day-to-day mobility within the room.
NDIS Property Investment
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to people with disabilities to help them live independently. If you’re building a home that is specifically designed for people with disabilities, you may be able to take advantage of NDIS property investment. This program provides financial assistance to help cover the costs of building or renovating a home that is designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities.
Lighting and Electrical Outlets
Lighting and electrical outlets are important considerations when making a bedroom wheelchair accessible. It’s important to make sure that there is enough natural light coming into the room, as well as adequate artificial lighting. It’s also important to make sure that all light switches, electrical outlets, and other controls are at a comfortable height for someone using a wheelchair and are easily reachable.
Bathroom Access
If the bedroom has an attached bathroom, it’s important to make sure that it is also wheelchair accessible. This may require installing grab bars, a roll-in shower, or a raised toilet. It’s also important to make sure that there is enough space in the bathroom for a wheelchair to maneuver.
Making a bedroom wheelchair accessible requires careful planning and consideration of various factors such as doorway and hallway access, flooring, bed and furniture, NDIS Property Investment, lighting and electrical outlets, and bathroom access.
It’s important to make sure that the bedroom is comfortable and easy to navigate for people with disabilities. Remember that a disabled-friendly home is not just about making a home accessible, but it’s also about creating a comfortable, safe, and secure environment for all residents.
It’s always best to consult with a qualified and experienced designer or architect to understand the best design options and to ensure that you are a good candidate for this type of project.
